How to Change Your Name on a V5C Log Book in the UK

If you have legally changed your name, you must update your vehicle registration certificate, also known as the V5C log book, with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Updating your V5C is usually free, but you must follow the correct process and provide supporting documents when required.

This guide explains how to change the name on a V5C log book, which section to complete, what evidence you may need, how long the process takes and what to do if your log book is missing.

Do You Need to Change Your Name on Your V5C Log Book?

Yes. If your name changes, you must update your V5C so that the vehicle registration records reflect your current details.

You should also update your UK driving licence separately. Changing the name on one document does not automatically update the other.

You could be fined up to £1,000 if you fail to tell the DVLA about a change of name.

For the official requirements, visit the GOV.UK guide to changing your name on a V5C.

Is It Free to Change Your Name on a V5C?

Changing your name on an existing V5C is usually free.

However, if you have lost your log book and need a replacement while changing your name, the process is different. You may need to complete form V62 and pay the applicable £25 replacement fee.

Check the official DVLA instructions before sending your application so that you use the correct procedure for your situation.

How to Change Your Name on a V5C Log Book

The process depends on which version of the V5C you have. You normally complete the relevant section of your existing log book and post the entire document to the DVLA.

Step 1: Check which V5C you have

Look at the front of your vehicle log book.

A newer V5C has multi-coloured numbered blocks on the front. Older versions have a different layout.

Identifying your version helps you complete the correct section.

Step 2: Complete the correct section

For the newer style of V5C, write your new name in full in section 3.

For the older style of V5C, write your new name in full in section 6.

Do not use initials. Follow the instructions printed on your document and make sure the information is clear and accurate.

Step 3: Write a letter explaining the change

Include a letter explaining why the name on your log book needs to change.

For example, you might have changed your name following marriage, divorce or a legal name change.

If the registered keeper is a business, the DVLA requires evidence of the business name change, such as a certificate of incorporation from Companies House.

Step 4: Include supporting evidence if required

If you are legally changing your name, include evidence such as a deed poll.

You generally do not need to provide proof if your name changed because of marriage or divorce, or if the name was spelt incorrectly on the log book by mistake.

Check the current DVLA requirements if your circumstances are different.

Step 5: Post your V5C to the DVLA

Send the entire V5C to the DVLA address shown in the relevant section of your log book.

Make sure you have included the explanatory letter and any required supporting evidence. Keep copies of the information you send for your own records.

Allow enough time for postal delivery and processing.

How Long Does It Take to Change a Name on a V5C?

The DVLA says it can take up to six weeks to receive your updated log book after you send your application.

If your new V5C has not arrived after four weeks, contact the DVLA to check on its progress.

If six weeks have passed and you have not notified the DVLA that the document has not arrived, you may have to pay £25 to get a replacement.

For the latest processing information, check the official DVLA name-change guidance.

What If You Need to Change Your Name and Address at the Same Time?

If you have changed both your name and your home address, you must use the combined name-and-address procedure.

You cannot use the separate online address-change service for this situation. Instead, complete the relevant sections of your V5C and send the document to the DVLA by post.

You may need to provide proof of your name change, such as a marriage certificate or deed poll.

Read the official GOV.UK instructions for changing your name and address together.

What If You Have Lost Your V5C Log Book?

If you have lost your log book, you cannot simply complete the name-change section on the missing document.

You will need to follow the DVLA procedure for a replacement V5C when changing your name.

The official guidance says you need to send:

• A completed V62 application for a vehicle registration certificate.
• A letter explaining the reason for your application.
• A cheque or postal order for £25 payable to DVLA.

Send the application to the address specified in the official guidance. The DVLA says it can take up to six weeks to receive the new log book.

Read our guide to getting a replacement V5C log book for more information about replacing a missing or damaged document.

Do You Also Need to Change Your Name on Your Driving Licence?

Yes. If your name has changed, you must update your driving licence separately.

For a UK driving licence, the DVLA has a separate application process. The process depends on the type of licence you hold and the documents required for your change.

The name-change process for a driving licence is generally free.

Read our guide to changing your name on a UK driving licence, or follow the official GOV.UK driving licence name-change instructions.

What If Your Vehicle Needs Taxing Soon?

If your vehicle needs taxing within the next four weeks, the DVLA provides options to help you manage the timing.

You can tax your vehicle online before sending your V5C, or take the log book to a Post Office that handles vehicle tax so that you can update your details and tax the vehicle at the same time.

You may also need evidence of a valid MOT if your vehicle requires one.

Check the latest official instructions before sending your log book so you do not overlook an upcoming tax deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my name on my V5C online?

For a name change on an existing V5C, the DVLA’s standard procedure is to complete the relevant section of the log book and send it by post. If you are changing your name and address together, you must also apply by post.

How much does it cost to change a name on a V5C?

Changing your name on an existing V5C is usually free. If you have lost your log book and need to apply for a replacement, a £25 fee may apply.

Do I need a deed poll to change my name on my V5C?

You need proof such as a deed poll if you are legally changing your name. The DVLA says proof is generally not required when the change is due to marriage or divorce, or when correcting a spelling mistake.

Can I change the name and address on my V5C together?

Yes. You can change both details at the same time, but you must follow the combined postal application process.

How long does it take to get an updated V5C?

It can take up to six weeks after you send your application. Contact the DVLA if the new log book has not arrived after four weeks.

Is the V5C the same as a driving licence?

No. The V5C records vehicle registration and the registered keeper. A driving licence relates to your entitlement to drive. You must update each document separately when the relevant details change.

Final Thoughts

Changing your name on a V5C log book is usually straightforward if you have your existing document and follow the DVLA instructions.

Complete the correct section for your V5C version, include an explanatory letter and provide supporting evidence when required. If you have also moved house or lost your log book, check the relevant alternative procedure before applying.

Official source: GOV.UK – Change your name on your vehicle log book (V5C)